Congregation Albert Brotherhood - February 2005

Brotherhood News

Gay Marriage: Courts, Ballots and the Constitution

In 2003 the United States Supreme Court unexpectedly ruled that state anti-sodomy laws were unconstitutional. The Massachusetts Supreme Court then legalized same-sex marriage, which set far-reaching events into motion. New Mexico gained national attention in February 2004 when the Sandoval County Clerk began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples. The state Attorney General ordered this stopped and declared illegal any same-sex marriages that had been performed.

During the 2004 Presidential election eleven states overwhelmingly passed anti-gay marriage ballot initiatives. Likewise, George Bush's majority reelection was due in part to his appeal to the electorate as representing traditional moral values. Bush stated throughout the campaign that he would support a constitutional amendment that would define marriage as being between a man and woman. However, the Republican controlled Senate did not pass this proposal when it was brought up for a vote in July 2004.

Join us on February 13th as we discuss the complex issues related to this controversial topic. Our speakers will be Attorney Mickey Barnett, Attorney Michael Healy, and Attorney Peter Kierst. The program, which is being jointly sponsored by the Congregation Albert Brotherhood and Sisterhood, begins with brunch at 10:00 a.m. in the Social Hall of Congregation Albert (3800 Louisiana NE). The cost is $6 for Brotherhood and Sisterhood members and $8 for others. Seating for the brunch, which is open to the public, is limited. Reservations should be made no later than February 10th by calling 883-1818 ext. 3203.

Allan Lerner/Rick Nathanson,
Brotherhood Programs Co-Chairs

Thanks to all who attended and helped make December's Latke Dinner a perennial Congregation favorite. Another Sell-out event!! As you can see, the second half of the '04-'05 CAB programming year switches gears from politics to a variety of subjects. Hope you enjoy and are enlightened by the winter and spring offerings assembled by Rick Nathanson and Allan Lerner. In addition we look forward to seeing you at the "CAB Deli" in support of Sisterhood's Purim Carnival.

Check our Web newsletter, CAB Driver, for more news brought to you in a somewhat irreverent style.

Sincerely, Rick Eisler, CAB president

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